Tinnitus & Possible Links to COVID-19 in Phoenix, Arizona
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, clicking, or hissing in the ears without an external sound source. According to the Hearing Health Foundation, at least 10% of people in the U.S. experience chronic tinnitus. While not a medical condition itself, tinnitus can indicate underlying health issues, and emerging research is exploring possible links to COVID-19.
COVID-19 and Tinnitus
Recent studies suggest COVID-19 may worsen or trigger tinnitus for some people:
- Journal of International Audiology (2021): 15% of COVID-19 patients reported tinnitus.
- Frontiers in Public Health (2020): 40% of people with tinnitus reported worsening symptoms after COVID-19.
Viral infections, medications, stress, and lifestyle changes can all impact tinnitus severity. While U.S. agencies don’t list tinnitus as a COVID-19 symptom, the U.K.’s NHS includes it among long COVID symptoms.
Managing Tinnitus
Effective strategies to reduce tinnitus impact include:
- Sound Therapy: Use white noise, soft music, or sound apps to mask ringing.
- Stress Reduction: Yoga, meditation, and exercise can help.
- Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs reduce noise exposure.
- Sleep & Lifestyle: Maintain good sleep hygiene, limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, and stay physically active.
If you’re experiencing persistent tinnitus or changes in hearing, contact Enticare in Phoenix, Arizona. Our ENT specialists provide comprehensive evaluations and treatment options to help you manage tinnitus and protect your hearing.